Anam Mui Ne in Vietnam reflects old world charm of Indochine heritage
On the occasion of World Architecture Day on October 2, here is a list of new architectural wonders to discover around the globe where guests can enrich their vacation by discovering little-known facets of design and architecture of the hotels.
The Anam, Vietnam
Encapsulating Vietnam’s history, culture, cuisine and native offerings, the firm says a stay at the Anam Mui Ne, Vietnam’s only resort to be a part of the small luxury hotels of the world, amidst classic Vietnamese aesthetics, is an unmissable indulgence. With a blend of Indochine charm and modern luxury, the hotel evokes the Vietnamese spirit. The architecture is inspired by the grand French villas of Hanoi that pay homage to both colonial-era and classic Vietnamese aesthetics, featuring customised encaustic mosaic tiles, Cham decorative vases and statues on plinths, stone from Thanh Hoa and Nghe An and authentic thatched roofs from Binh Thuan.
The furniture is crafted with wood sourced from sustainable forests. The hotel commissioned Vietnamese artists to make 250 unique oil paintings that now hang in its rooms, suite, lobby, restaurants, and hallways. The artists include painters Bui Van Quang, known for beautifully portraying daily Vietnamese life and Vu Trong Anh praised for his abstract interpretations of Vietnamese scenery.
Shangri-La Muscat, Oman
Shangri La Muscat has integrated rich Omani tradition in its architecture
Set amidst the Hajar mountains overlooking the Gulf of Oman, Shangri-La Muscat offers a unique welcome with Omani rituals of serving coffee and dates amid a whiff of Luban. Even the architecture of the hotel is deeply rooted in the region’s cultural heritage. The hotel’s Al Waha wing is an ode to Dhofari architectural style while the Al Bandar wing is inspired by old Muscat buildings of varying heights and ornate balconies. Oman’s only river connects these two ‘towns’ replicating the falaj system that brought fresh water to remote Omani villages.
Guests can join the hotel’s Culture and Heritage Ambassador, Khalid Al Amri on a tour of the resort to learn about Omani art and architecture, private frankincense garden and private classic cars collection. The hotel features many art pieces and paintings sourced from local artists including famous women contemporary artists of Oman. There are multiple photographs on display in the hotel lobby, corridors, and rooms that are taken by the owner of the hotel, an avid photographer and art connoisseur, who traces his roots to Gujarat in India. The statement adds that there are several Indian influences in the interiors and décor pieces as well, such as hand-tufted carpets sourced from India that adorn the main lobby.
The Residence, Zanzibar
The Residence Zanzibar offers a melange of African, British & Indian heritage
Nestled amid a lush palm-bordered beach, The Residence Zanzibar is a villa-only resort, located off the coast of Tanzania in the Indian Ocean. 66 luxurious villas set within 32 hectares of tropical garden offer guests a peek into the island’s distinct culture. Modern comfort meets Swahili, Omani, British and Indian influences in this private sanctuary. Thoughtfully designed, each villa offers breath-taking views of the Ocean or the garden. The statement adds that the furniture is reminiscent of the past with a touch of modern accents.
The staff can also arrange excursions on request to Stone Town or Mji Mkongwe which is a part of the old Zanzibar City. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, buildings are inspired by a mix of Arab, Persian, Indian, European, and African architecture.
Ishq Villas, Sri Lanka
Luxury is written into design of Ishq Talpe Villas in Sri Lanka
Ishq Colombo and Ishq Talpe, nestled in two beautiful destinations of Sri Lanka promise bespoke experiences to a discerning set of visitors, worldwide. The capital accommodates the epitome of luxury, Ishq Colombo. This four-suite villa is tucked into a quiet leafy neighbourhood, showcasing a beautiful blend of Dutch and English heritage that pays homage to the rich Sri-Lankan history. A collection of rare antiques, contemporary Sri Lankan art, and Moroccan artwork adorns the old-world charm of the island.
Outdoors is exotic and relaxing, the team of managers, attendants and chefs thriving to serve personalised dining experiences. A curated trip arranged by the staff is an itinerary filled with the city’s key attractions, local markets, art walks, tea tasting, Geoffrey Bawa’s former multi-terraced home, which is now a museum, and a walk through the diverse culture of the multi-ethnic city.
The statement adds that exceptional designs, tropical simplicities and oceanic hues define Ishq Talpe. The five-bedroom villa brings together the comforts of a boutique hotel with privacy. High ceilings, garden terraces, and characteristics of Dutch heritage reflect a vintage and vibrant luxury to the guests. A curated tour by the team takes visitors to witness the charm of the historic buildings, boutiques, jewellery shops, and cafes at every turn. A visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Galle Fort is also a part of the itinerary.
